Marlins shortstop completes crazy play with throw you must see to believe

The Miami Marlins haven’t had many highlights this season, which was to be expected after Derek Jeter’s new ownership group cleaned house in the offseason.

Veteran shortstop Miguel Rojas made sure his team will get some attention on the highlight shows Tuesday night though, completing a spectacular diving play with a throw that has to be seen to be believed.

From his backside

The Phillies had already jumped out to a five-run lead in the second inning when Scott Kingery attempted to extend their lead with a basehit to left field. That’s when Rojas sprang into action, flagging down the ground ball ticketed for left field with a diving, back-handed stop.

That part alone was outstanding for the Marlins. At the very least, Rojas’ effort promised to keep yet another run from scoring on that play. Rojas then turned it into a must-see play by creating an inning-ending force out at third base with an off-balance throw from his backside.

Marlins shortstop Miguel Rojas completed one of the best plays this season with a throw from his backside. (MLB.TV)

We weren’t exaggerating. He was literally on his backside with his momentum still taking him into left field. You won’t find a better or more determined play than that one.

The throw stopped the bleeding in the second inning. Unfortunately for Miami, it didn’t turn their fortunes around completely. Despite a two-hit game from Rojas at the plate and two home runs from catcher J.T. Realmuto, Miami lost the game 9-4.

One of the few Marlins left

While big names like Giancarlo Stanton, Christian Yelich and Marcell Ozuna were traded over the winter, Rojas is one of the few veterans familiar to Marlins fans who remained. Rojas was acquired from the Dodgers on Dec. 11, 2014 in the trade that also sent Dee Gordon and Dan Haren to Miami. The Dodgers received Austin Barnes, Chris Hatcher, Andrew Heaney and Enrique Hernandez.

Rojas, 29, has appeared in 407 games for Miami, mostly as a shortstop. He’s a .255/.308/.338 career hitter with 14 homers and 10 steals. He’s probably not the Marlins shortstop of the future, but he’s making his case to stick around with efforts like this.